Goa to Regulate App-Based Taxis, Empower Locals

Panaji, Jul 24 (PTI) The Goa government has formulated a set of draft guidelines, proposing a framework to introduce and regulate app-based taxi services while ensuring benefits of the sector remain with local taxi operators, a minister said.

The draft guidelines aim to modernise the state's taxi ecosystem through digital platforms, while safeguarding the interests of "Niz-Goenkars" (native Goans) involved in the trade, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho informed the legislative assembly on Wednesday.

He tabled a written reply in the House after the matter was raised by BJP MLA Kedar Naik.

As per the draft Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025 for public consultation, only vehicles registered in the state with valid taxi permits will be allowed to operate through the aggregator platforms.


"Also, only drivers holding a Goa-issued Public Service Vehicle (PSV) badge will be eligible to be onboarded by aggregators," the minister said.


The guidelines propose that taxi drivers receive the full fare amount as notified by the government without any deductions or commissions by the platform.

"Payments must be made within 72 hours, failing which the aggregators will be liable to pay penal interest," the minister said.


The draft policy also empowers local drivers by allowing them to operate on multiple platforms of their choosing, he said, adding this will ensure fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices by aggregator companies.


Godinho said the policy also includes incentives for female owner-cum-drivers such as insurance reimbursement, vehicle subsidies, and fee waivers for aggregators whose fleets comprise a majority of women drivers.


The proposed app-based system is intended to provide greater convenience and transparency to both locals and tourists by ensuring easy digital access to taxis through licensed platforms, he said.


"These measures are aimed at striking a balance between modernising the sector through digital innovation and protecting the economic interests of Goan taxi owners and drivers," he added.